National Impaired Driving Awareness Month Increase in Drunk Driving Accidents During Holidays
The US Department of Transportation reports that, on average, 300 people die each year in drunk driving crashes the week between Christmas and New Years alone. The holiday season can be a very dangerous time to be on the roads. There is increased snow, sleet, and ice on roadways making them difficult to drive on. There is also a surge of travelers on the road heading to functions with friends and family creating more congestion and traffic jams. On top of this is the intensification of celebrating and drinking during the holidays and impairing.
With horrible weather and congested roads, there is already an amplified risk of getting into a car accident. It is important to be cognizant and concentrated on the road, especially in these conditions. This means always having a designated driver and never driving while you are impaired.
What is Impaired Driving?
The National Library of Medicine defines impaired driving as operating a motor vehicle while you are affected by:
- Alcohol
- Drugs (Whether they are legal or illegal)
- Sleep deprivation
- Distractions
- Illness or medical condition
All of these circumstances can dramatically affect your ability to drive, endangering you and those around you. With already life-threatening driving conditions, you do not need another dangerous variable involved in your commute.
How to Prevent Drunk Driving Accidents
So how do you limit the amount of impaired driving during the holiday season?
Designated Driver
A non-drinking, designated driver that will stay alert while driving is the first step to preventing accidents. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can lead to fatal accidents.
Driving Services
Not having a designated driver available should not be an excuse. With apps like Uber and Lyft, it is simple to get a safe ride back to your destination without risking your life. RLA even has a Holiday Safe Ride App, which provides free rides in Providence during select holidays. There are many ways to get home without getting behind the wheel while impaired.
Watching Out For Your Loved Ones
Never let someone drive if you think they are not fit to drive. Though this can be a difficult conversation, it is much better than them being arrested or getting into a car crash. If anyone is showing signs that they are impaired, make sure they do not get behind the wheel.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When you are on the roads, keep an eye out for impaired drivers. Ideally, there would be no impaired drivers on the road; unfortunately, this is not the case. Therefore it is important that you are focused on the road and are aware of your surroundings. If you see a vehicle swerving or driving suspiciously, contact the police.
Impaired driving during the holidays is an epidemic. It is up to us to be responsible drivers and get our friends, our family, and ourselves to our destinations safely.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an impaired driving accident, call Rob Levine & Associates today for a free consultation. We will help you understand the process and your options. Remember, our Fee Free policy ensures you don’t pay anything unless you win.
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